Academic Catalog 2026-2027

Academic Catalog 2026 - 2027

HMS 2852 Child and Early Adult Development 3 credits This course is a survey of the basis of human growth and development. Emotional, mental, physical, and social needs of children, adolescents, and early adults are reviewed. Analysis of the multiple factors which influence and shape

behavior and personality is made. HMS 2864 Health Psychology

3 credits This course introduces students to the field of health psychology, focusing on how biological, psychological, and social factors influence health, illness, and healthcare outcomes. Students examine theories and research related to health behaviors, stress, coping, chronic illness, and health promotion. Emphasis is placed on applying psychological principles to real-world health issues across diverse populations. Ethical and cultural considerations in health-related practice are also explored. HMS 3110 Careers and Service Learning in Human Services & Psychology 3 credits This course bridges academic study and direct community engagement, allowing students to integrate classroom theory with hands-on service in diverse human services contexts. By alternating between in-class sessions and field based placements, students gain a deep understanding of complex social issues affecting marginalized populations, while developing professional skills, ethical awareness, and civic responsibility. This approach not only strengthens employability and critical thinking but also prepares students to address real-world challenges with cultural competence, empathy, and technological literacy. (Prerequisite: PSY 2851). HMS 3112 Methods of Social Research 3 credits This course covers basic elements of the use of scientific methods in social science research. Topics covered include techniques and methods of quantitative and qualitative social research as they relate to hypothesis testing, research design, measurement, quantitative data collection methods (surveys, experiments, and single subject design), and statistical data analysis. The ethics, politics, and uses of social research in the Human Services, including how to develop and submit a research proposal to an agency review board, are included. HMS 3420 Issues and Practices in Child Welfare 3 credits This course which is designed to prepare students for work with children and families. It will introduce students to current issues effecting children and families today such as poverty, lack of health care, child abuse and neglect, juvenile delinquency, substance abuse, bullying, homelessness, and teen pregnancy. Current legislation will be explored in its relationship to services provided for children and families such as educational programs, mental health counseling, foster care and adoption, day care programs and residential care. Practice issues as they relate to working with children and their families will be explored with an emphasis on skill development in group work, case management, resource and referral, case assessment and treatment planning. Best practices for program development with children and families will also be discussed. HMS 3612 Human Services Leadership & Management 3 credits This course provides students with an understanding of the components of human services administration and management. Includes a study of diverse groups and topics such as racial and ethnic identity, gender identity, sexual identity, power and racism, and diversity awareness. It focuses on both indirect and direct service utilization, attention to organizational theory relevant to the human services, and skills necessary for the effective management and administration of human service organizations. HMS 4612 Counseling Strategies & Interventions 3 credits A practical study of individual, group, marriage, family, and play therapy. Techniques utilized include those appropriate for children, teenagers, and adults. Research-based interventions are emphasized. HMS 4806 Ethical Issues in Human Services 3 credits A modern survey of the principles and theories of moral conduct within the scope of the human services industry. The behaviors of professionals, consumers, and organizations are scrutinized in a comprehensive study of the moral responsibilities that guide the inter-relationships inherent in the delivery of human services. Moral judgment and decision-making are applied to the establishment and implementation of social policy and its regulation. (Prerequisite: HMS 1501 & PSY 2851) HMS 4950 Human Services Capstone 3 credits This course integrates the information learned in all of the students’ psychology, behavioral science, and human

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